The American University in Bulgaria is a distinguished higher education institution renowned for its commitment to academic excellence. As a leader in the country’s education landscape, AUBG is seeking a legal professional and dedicated individual to serve as the Internal Legal Advisor.
The Internal Legal Advisor provides accurate and timely legal advice to the University President and leadership on a variety of legal topics including but not limited to labor and employment, immigration, finance, service contracts and general operations. Research and evaluate different risk factors and offer proactive advice on possible legal issues. Maintain current knowledge of laws and provide clarification on legal language and advise the University President and leadership. Regularly monitor and ensure the University’s compliance with local laws in the context of the complex University environment. Advise on the University compliance with GDPR and data protection laws, monitor AUBG adherence to GDPR standards and act as a point of contact with supervisory authorities and data subjects. Monitor procedures and associated documentation to ensure the University’s compliance with anti-money laundering regulations and statutes.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Legal Advisory and Compliance
- Offer expert legal advice to various university departments, ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and policies.
- Serve as the primary contact related to legal issues and seek external legal counsel wherever deemed necessary.
- Liaise with external legal counsel when necessary and manage litigation matters effectively.
- Provide guidance on legal issues relevant to the university’s operations, including drafting, revising and interpreting contracts and other legal documents.
- Negotiate contracts, agreements, and MOUs to safeguard the university’s interests and legal standing.
- Work closely with relevant departments to ensure contractual compliance and risk mitigation.
- Collaborate with stakeholders to develop and review university policies, ensuring alignment with legal requirements and best practices, including related to GDPR and to anti-money laundering.
- Offer legal insights during the financial planning and reporting process.
- Keep comprehensive documentation on legal matters.
- Conduct legal awareness sessions and training programs for university staff to enhance legal literacy and foster a culture of compliance.
Labor Law and Employee Relations
- Advise on employee issues related to labor law.
- Work collaboratively with the HR Office to ensure compliance.
- Facilitate the resolution of legal disputes and grievances involving the university through negotiation, mediation, or other appropriate means.
Anti-Money Laundering Act Compliance
- Serve as the contact person of AUBG under the Anti Money Laundering Act.
- Research and report on unique legal issues related to anti-money laundering.
- Monitor procedures and associated documentation to ensure the University’s compliance with anti-money laundering regulations and statutes.
- Liaise with external entities and authorities to address Anti Money Laundering Act requirements.
- Ensure the University’s compliance with anti-money laundering laws and policies.
GDPR Compliance
- Serve as the primary contact for internal and external individuals regarding inquiries related to data protection.
- Identify and evaluate the University’s data processing procedures.
- Provide advice and instructions on how to conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs).
- Monitor data management procedures and compliance within the University.
- Participate in meetings to ensure the incorporation of the Privacy by Design principle across all organizational levels.
- Keep comprehensive records.
- Write and update detailed guides on data protection policies.
- Perform audits to assess compliance with GDPR.
- Offer consultation on how to deal with privacy breaches.
Legal Research and Analysis
- Provide comprehensive analysis and interpretations of legal issues affecting higher education.
- Stay informed about legal trends and disseminate relevant information to the university community.
- Follow up with changes in law and issue recommendations to ensure compliance.
- Conduct in-depth research and provide comprehensive reports on distinctive legal issues affecting the University.
Requirements and Desired Qualifications:
- A University degree in law, required;
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English and Bulgarian, required;
- Proficient knowledge of GDPR.
- Proficient knowledge in Anti-Money Laundry Act
- Knowledge of the higher education law is an advantage.
- Keen attention to detail.
- Capability of exercising independent initiative and precise judgment.
- Accuracy and efficiency in task execution.
The Offer:
At the American University in Bulgaria, we are dedicated to providing our employees with a stimulating and supportive work environment. As the Internal Legal Advisor, you can expect:
- A Multinational and Friendly Environment: Join a diverse and welcoming community within a leading educational organization.
- Freedom to Showcase Your Skills: We value individual strengths and skills and encourage you to bring your unique talents to the role.
- On-the-Job Training and Professional Development: Receive ongoing training and support to help you excel in your role and attain professional qualifications.
- Comprehensive Employee Benefits: Access a wide range of employee benefits designed to enhance your overall well-being. For a complete list of benefits, please visit Careers at AUBG.
If you are enthusiastic about the opportunity to serve as the Internal Legal Advisor and aspire to work, learn, and grow within a top academic institution, we invite you to apply. Please submit your resume, a compelling cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the position, and a reference page to [email protected].
The information you have provided will be used to process your application for employment. It will not be passed to third parties or used for other purposes. If you are successful, we will keep your application details. If you are not the chosen candidate, we will destroy your data within 6 months after this vacancy closes. Security procedures are in place to protect your data in accordance with the principles of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Your details may be stored electronically in a password-protected system and/or as paper copies in secure storage.
